BJJ Mental Models

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the importance of probabilistic thinking: viewing Jiu-Jitsu as a game of probabilities where your goal is to create (and maintain) the greatest possible chance of success. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by Jesse Phillips! Jesse is a BJJ black belt under Brian Johnson and the head coach at Gentle Giant Jiu-Jitsu. In this episode, Jesse explores burnout in martial arts and real life, often caused by the crushing weight of personal expectations that we place upon ourselves. Follow Jesse on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gentlegiantjiujitsu Train with Jesse at Gentle Giant Jiu-Jitsu in Seattle, WA: https://www.gg-jj.com Mental models discussed in this episode: Survivorship Bias https://bjjmentalmodels.com/survivorship-bias Self-Competition https://bjjmentalmodels.com/self-competition Compartmentalization https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compartmentalization Keep Your Identity Small https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small Stress and Recovery https://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the idea of learning modalities. The old concept of "learning styles" has been debunked; here's what we use instead. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this episode of State of the Meta, Marcelo Garcia vs Lachlan Giles takes center stage as Drew breaks down ONE Fight Night 38’s generational clash. He explores each legend’s style, career arc, and signature weapons (from Marcelo’s pressure, wrestle-ups, and guillotines to Giles’ K-guard leg-lock traps), while examining age narratives, meta trends, and realistic paths to victory for both icons. This free bonus episode is from Drew Foster's excellent State of the Meta podcast, exclusively available on BJJ Mental Models Premium ! Watch Marcelo Garcia vs Lachlan Giles on ONE Fight Night 38: https://www.onefc.com/events/onefightnight38 Resources discussed in this episode: Longform Marcelo Garcia game breakdown: https://youtu.be/GzLx2PgI9zw Marcelo Garcia comeback match: https://youtu.be/jPQdaNkx3ps Lachlan Giles' famous ADCC run: https://youtu.be/KoPxgjLbJmA Lachlan Giles breaking down Marcelo Garcia passing: https://youtu.be/bbjdRwWiQgk Lachlan Giles highlights: https://youtu.be/o_qsoJeroNg Marcelo Garcia highlights: https://youtu.be/PkgR767YgFk Need more Drew Foster? Follow Drew Foster on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drewdarce Listen to Drew on The Neon Belly Podcast: https://theneonbelly.buzzsprout.com/ Check out Drew's contributions on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/user/Darce_Knight/ Get Drew's instructionals: http://darcedynamics.com/ ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by BJJ and Judo black belt, Dr. Chris Round! Chris is the Executive Director at Martial Arts for Social Transformation, Equity, and Rights (MASTERs). In this episode, Chris explains the helpful gripfighting scorecard from his Tactical Grip Fighting system. Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris__circle Learn about Martial Arts for Social Transformation, Equity, and Rights (MASTERs): https://www.martialartsforsocialgood.org Get Chris' instructional, Tactical Grip Fighting: https://tacticalgripfighting.com Mental models discussed in this episode: Grips Dictate Position https://bjjmentalmodels.com/grips-dictate-position Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics Goodhart’s Law https://bjjmentalmodels.com/goodharts-law Theory of Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment Asymmetric Warfare https://bjjmentalmodels.com/asymmetric-warfare Dominant Angles https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles Kinetic Chains https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains Countergripping https://bjjmentalmodels.com/countergripping Inside Channel Control https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inside-channel-control Crossing the Center https://bjjmentalmodels.com/crossing-the-center ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the importance of defending with purpose: making sure that when you defend, you do so with the intent of advancing position, not just surviving the attack. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined again by Chris Wojcik! In this episode, Chris explores the tension between digital and real-world Jiu-Jitsu learning. Topics include: the limits of instructionals, the value of in-person training, communication challenges in teaching, and how grapplers can balance study with mat time. Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chrismwojcik Get Chris' instructionals on BJJ Fanatics: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/instructional-videos/fighter_chris-wojcik Subscribe to The Grappler's Diary on Substack: https://thegrapplersdiary.substack.com Buy Chris' book, A Grappler's Diary: https://amazon.com/dp/B0DS1J794V Mental models discussed in this episode: Ecological Dynamics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ecological-dynamics Constraints-Led Approach https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constraints-led-approach Concepts Over Techniques https://bjjmentalmodels.com/concepts-over-techniques Open Knowledge https://bjjmentalmodels.com/open-knowledge Learning Modalities https://bjjmentalmodels.com/learning-modalities Position Over Submission https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission Analysis Paralysis https://bjjmentalmodels.com/analysis-paralysis Intention https://bjjmentalmodels.com/intention You Are What You Train https://bjjmentalmodels.com/you-are-what-you-train ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the importance of respecting your opponent: not only for moral reasons, but because it leads to better grappling outcomes. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by 10th Planet standout Keith Krikorian! In this episode, Keith shares his thoughts on mental health, community, and staying grounded in an increasingly chaotic world. Keith shares how Jiu-Jitsu builds confidence, connection, and emotional resilience, why the sport attracts so many unique personalities, and how gratitude transformed both his mindset and his game. Follow Keith on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/keithkrikorian Mental models discussed in this episode: Feedback Loop https://bjjmentalmodels.com/feedback-loop Growth From Discomfort https://bjjmentalmodels.com/growth-from-discomfort Compartmentalization https://bjjmentalmodels.com/compartmentalization Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the race to the bottom: a pricing phenomenon where we drive prices so low that they become unsustainable. This concept is critical to understand for any Jiu-Jitsu business. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by Mat Made founder Kenny Kim! In this episode, Kenny discusses how to build deeper connections and stronger communities through Jiu-Jitsu. Topics include: creating lasting engagement at gyms, growing authentic online followings, using storytelling to inspire others, overcoming imposter syndrome, building consistency, and leading with purpose. Follow Kenny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kennykimbjj The Jiu-Jitsu Millionaire, by Kenny Kim: https://a.co/d/fZghu0a Mat Made (book), by Kenny Kim: https://amazon.com/dp/B09231HG4R Mat Made show & gym finder: https://matmade.com Train at Kenny Kim BJJ in Marietta, GA: https://kennykimbjj.com Resources discussed in this episode: The Influence Continuum: https://freedomofmind.com/cult-mind-control/influence-continuum Mental models discussed in this episode: Continuum of Motivation https://bjjmentalmodels.com/continuum-of-motivation Inertia https://bjjmentalmodels.com/inertia Impostor Syndrome https://bjjmentalmodels.com/impostor-syndrome Timeframe Paradox https://bjjmentalmodels.com/timeframe-paradox Third Place https://bjjmentalmodels.com/third-place Permission Paradox https://bjjmentalmodels.com/permission-paradox Advice Paradox https://bjjmentalmodels.com/advice-paradox Consistency https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss how the torso and levers become points of control. With torso control, we clamp or hook onto our opponent's torso so we can hold them in position or rotate around them. With lever control, we use our opponent's arms, legs, and/or head to create leverage. Attacking a single lever usually affords more force, whereas attacking multiple levers simultaneously usually affords more control. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined again by "Silver Fox" Karel Pravec! In this episode, Karel explores one of Jiu-Jitsu's most underrated submissions: the omoplata. Karel explains why the omoplata is so effective as both a sweep and control position, how to chain between parallel and perpendicular omoplatas, and why it excels against bigger opponents. Follow Karel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/silverfoxbjj Get Karel's instructionals on BJJ Fanatics: https://bjjfanatics.com/collections/karel-pravec Train with Karel at Silver Fox BJJ in New Jersey: https://silverfoxbjj.com Learn online with Karel on the Silver Fox BJJ app: https://silverfoxbjjglobal.com Resources discussed in this episode: Omoplata Attacks https://youtu.be/9cRPcxZXIKo Omoplata Set Up & Finishing Details https://youtu.be/1nTYmH6NmP0 Understanding The Split Guard https://youtu.be/gWtdq9txY_g Omoplata to MangleDome https://youtu.be/lumzFvUtRMM Mental models discussed in this episode: Technique Chaining https://bjjmentalmodels.com/technique-chaining Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses Return on Investment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment Probabilistic Thinking https://bjjmentalmodels.com/probabilistic-thinking Dominant Angles https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dominant-angles Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics Theory of Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment Committed Techniques https://bjjmentalmodels.com/committed-techniques ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we introduce the last mile problem, which explains why it gets harder to achieve our goals as we near the end (or "last mile"). The last mile problem is commonly caused by complexity, complacency, consistency, or confidence. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by Stephan Kesting! In this episode, Stephan teaches the Kimura as both a submission and a positional system: its ancient origins, key positional variations, and how it functions as a control framework rather than just a finishing move. Topics include finishing mechanics, leverage physics, the "fat old lazy man" Kimura, and Kesting’s new instructional, The Kimura Roadmap. Follow Stephan Kesting on Instagram: https://instagram.com/stephan_kesting Learn online with Stephan at Grapplearts: https://grapplearts.com Resources discussed in this episode: The Kimura Roadmap, by Stephan Kesting https://grapplearts.com/kimura The Near Side Kimura, A Forgotten Position https://youtu.be/62oLRT_Sar4 The Lazy, Old, Fat Man Kimura https://youtu.be/29JtQffs-yA Submission as Position, feat. Rob Biernacki https://www.bjjmentalmodels.com/products/submission-as-position-feat-rob-biernacki The Phil Davis Kimura, AKA the "Phil-Mura" https://youtu.be/LuM13SpQIho Mental models discussed in this episode: Position Over Submission https://bjjmentalmodels.com/position-over-submission Terminal Positions https://bjjmentalmodels.com/terminal-positions Predictable Responses https://bjjmentalmodels.com/predictable-responses Dilemma https://bjjmentalmodels.com/dilemma 3 Joint Rule https://bjjmentalmodels.com/3-joint-rule Ratchet Control https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ratchet-control Torque https://bjjmentalmodels.com/torque Core Mechanics https://bjjmentalmodels.com/core-mechanics ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we introduce the four types of guard: hook, clamp, frame, and hybrid. Every guard in Jiu-Jitsu can be classified into one of these types. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined again by Josh McKinney! In this episode, Josh explains how to structure the perfect Jiu-Jitsu competition camp. Topics include: offense vs. defense days, performance days, intensity vs. recovery, overtraining, saying no to unsafe rolls, and advice for non-competitors. Follow Josh McKinney on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejoshmckinney Train with Josh at HeadNod HQ in Granite City, IL: https://headnodhq.com Check out Josh on the I Suck at Jiu-Jitsu Show: https://youtube.com/@isuckatjiujitsu Get Josh's ebook, The Competitor's Journey: https://www.simplifyingjiujitsu.com/comp Join BJJMM Premium and get direct online coaching from Josh: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/coaching Mental models discussed in this episode: Deliberate Practice https://bjjmentalmodels.com/deliberate-practice Defense Paradox https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defense-paradox Plus, Minus, Equals https://bjjmentalmodels.com/plus-minus-equals Raise the Level in the Room https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room Training Handicaps https://bjjmentalmodels.com/training-handicaps Prioritize Longevity https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity Stress and Recovery https://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery Parkinson's Law https://bjjmentalmodels.com/parkinsons-law Planning Paradox https://bjjmentalmodels.com/planning-paradox Last Mile Problem https://bjjmentalmodels.com/last-mile-problem ⬆️ LEVEL UP with BJJ Mental Models Premium! The world's LARGEST library of Jiu-Jitsu audio lessons, our complete podcast network, online coaching, and much more! Your first week is free: https://bjjmentalmodels.com Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get the legendary BJJMM newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter Learn more mental models in our online database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database Follow us on social: https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels https://threads.com/@bjjmentalmodels https://bjjmentalmodels.bsky.social https://youtube.com/@bjjmentalmodels Music by Enterprize: ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the concept of the knee line: an imaginary line connecting your two knees. When the two points of this line combine with your groin, these three points create a triangle. That triangle is the basis for how we use our legs to clamp or wedge our opponent in place. To clamp or wedge their body part in place with your knees, it should be inside your knee+knee+groin triangle. To prevent them from doing the same to you, your body part should be outside their knee+knee+groin triangle. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by Mike Mahaffey (Old Bastard BJJ) and Jesse Walker (Rough Hands BJJ)! Mike and Jesse explain the "old bastard" style of closed guard: a way to play the position without relying on strength, speed, or athleticism. Follow Mike Mahaffey: https://instagram.com/oldbastardbjj https://threads.com/@oldbastardbjj Follow Jesse Walker: https://instagram.com/roughhandsbjj Train with Jesse Walker at Rough Hands BJJ in Louisville, KY: https://roughhandsbjj.com/ Resources discussed in this episode: 100 men vs. 1 gorilla: Jesse Walker on CNN https://redd.it/1kdahgj BJJ Mental Models Ep. 191: Old Bastard Jiu-Jitsu, feat. Mike Mahaffey https://bjj.plus/191 Old Bastard Jiu-Jitsu audio course from BJJMM https://bjj.plus/oldbastardbjj Mental models discussed in this episode: Theory of Alignment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/theory-of-alignment Types of Guard https://bjjmentalmodels.com/types-of-guard/ Body Tethering https://bjjmentalmodels.com/body-tethering/ Static vs. Dynamic Control https://bjjmentalmodels.com/static-vs-dynamic-control/ Kinetic Chains https://bjjmentalmodels.com/kinetic-chains/ Paradox of Control https://bjjmentalmodels.com/paradox-of-control/ Knee Line https://bjjmentalmodels.com/knee-line/ Pattern Interrupts https://bjjmentalmodels.com/pattern-interrupts/ Placeholders https://bjjmentalmodels.com/placeholders/ Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ http ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss the curse of knowledge: a cognitive bias explaining why it's hard for experts to relate to beginners. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this episode, Rob Biernacki confronts a growing trend of competitors refusing to tap and taking serious injuries at low-level tournaments. Rob argues that reckless "tough-guy" behavior, poor finishing mechanics, and bad coaching culture are fueling unnecessary damage for hobbyists. Rob calls for smarter, safer training values, reminding athletes that protecting longevity matters more than risking ligaments for a $5 medal. Follow Rob on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/islandtopteam Train with Rob at Island Top Team in Nanaimo, BC, Canada: https://islandtopteam.com/ Learn from Rob online at BJJ Concepts: https://bjjconcepts.net/ Mental models discussed in this episode: Defend With Purpose https://bjjmentalmodels.com/defend-with-purpose/ Constant and Variable Tension https://bjjmentalmodels.com/constant-and-variable-tension/ Keep Your Identity Small https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/ Prioritize Longevity https://bjjmentalmodels.com/prioritize-longevity/ Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss center of gravity: your body's "tipping point" of balance. Your center of gravity is around 56% of the way up your body (around your pelvis) when standing upright, but moves as your body moves. Understanding your center of gravity is key to preventing it from being used against you. With practice, your center of gravity can even be a weapon. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined again by Jeff Shaw from Bellingham BJJ! In this episode, Jeff talks about the causes and cures for burnout in Jiu-Jitsu. Topics include: plateaus, the “blue belt blues,” the unique pressures faced by instructors and gym owners, keeping training sustainable, protecting consistency, staying playful, reframing expectations, and redefining what Jiu-Jitsu should mean for your life over the long term. Follow Jeff on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bellinghambjj Train with Jeff at Bellingham BJJ: https://bellinghambjj.com/ Mental models discussed in this episode: Reframing https://bjjmentalmodels.com/reframing/ Keep /Your Identity Small https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-your-identity-small/ Consistency https://bjjmentalmodels.com/consistency/ Training Handicaps https://bjjmentalmodels.com/training-handicaps/ Stress and Recovery https://bjjmentalmodels.com/stress-and-recovery/ Keep it Playful https://bjjmentalmodels.com/keep-it-playful/ Zone of Genius https://bjjmentalmodels.com/zone-of-genius/ Raise the Level in the Room https://bjjmentalmodels.com/raise-the-level-in-the-room/ Abundance Mindset https://bjjmentalmodels.com/abundance-mindset/ Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

In this week's mini-episode, we discuss tipping points: the idea that once you have sufficient leverage or momentum, your desired outcome can no longer be denied. Get our Intro to Mechanics audio course, normally $79, FREE: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/freeintro Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta

This week, we're joined by Dr. Jen Case! Jen is a 13x IBJJF masters world champion, BJJ black belt under Renato Tavares, coach at Charlotte Jiu-Jitsu Academy, and PhD in Human Nutrition & Performance. In this episode, Jen covers the risks of Jiu-Jitsu competition and how it can be made safer. Follow Jen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjenjitsu/ Jen's website: https://drjencase.com/ Train with Jen at Charlotte Jiu-Jitsu Academy in North Carolina: https://charlotte-bjj.com/ Mental models discussed in this episode: Normalization https://bjjmentalmodels.com/normalization/ Gamification https://bjjmentalmodels.com/gamification/ Open Knowledge https://bjjmentalmodels.com/open-knowledge/ Return on Investment https://bjjmentalmodels.com/return-on-investment/ Don't forget to check out BJJ Mental Models Premium! If you love the podcast, you'll definitely love our premium membership offerings. The podcast is truly just the tip of the iceberg – the next steps on your journey are joining our community, downloading our strategy courseware, and working with us to optimize your game. We do all this through memberships that come in at a fraction of the cost of a single private. Sign up here for a free trial: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/ Need more BJJ Mental Models? Get tips, tricks, and breakthrough insights from our newsletter: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/newsletter/ Get nitty-gritty details on our mental models from the full database: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/database/ Follow us on social: https://facebook.com/bjjmentalmodels/ https://instagram.com/bjjmentalmodels/ Music by Enterprize: https://enterprize.bandcamp.com/ ⚠️ NEW course from BJJ Mental Models! MINDSET FOR BETAS, our new Jiu-Jitsu audio course with Rob Biernacki, is now available on BJJ Mental Models Premium! For a limited time, get your first month FREE at: https://bjjmentalmodels.com/beta